Youth Learn Wrestling Skills, Self-Confidence at CHS Wrestling Camp

Colton High School (CHS) head wrestling coach Anthony Urrea invited local wrestlers to hone their skills and learn from industry professionals at the CHS Ken Hubbs gymnasium Saturday from 9 a.m. through 5 p.m. Wrestlers of all ages from Colton, Grand Terrace, Rialto, Cal State Fullerton and the Adrenaline Combat Sport and Fitness gym gathered and practiced with Team Reign (California State University, Fullerton) wrestler Nick Jordan and UFC welterweight Jake Ellenberger, who wrestled and coached at the University of Nebraska, Omaha, as they discussed technique and form. They emphasized self-confidence during the first wrestling camp CHS has held in its history. “This is for the love of the sport. This is our future when it comes to wrestling,” said Coach Urrea as he motioned to the approximately 50 kids practiced escape techniques on the mat. “We’re giving back to the kids who are passionate about the sport and we’ve gathered them here with Nick Jordan and Jake Ellenberger.” For the visiting wrestling coaches, the day was an opportunity for them to refresh various concepts and also to emphasize leadership and self-esteem. “We’re here today to keep kids on the mat and remind them to stay focused and out of trouble. They see us as accomplished and I think that gives them something to strive for,” said Jordan during a quick break between technique lessons. “We want to send out a positive message.” Ellenberger added, “There are a lot of things that people don’t necessarily know that wrestling builds,” he said. “These kids are at an impressionable age and wrestling teaches them self-reliance, discipline and structure.” Jordan added accountability as another positive trait the sport teaches. “As difficult [as it is] and as much adversity as wrestling presents, we’re here to keep it enjoyable,” Ellenberger said. “Wrestling is one of the hardest-working and oldest sports known to man. Dan Gable said, ‘Once you’ve wrestled, everything else in life is easy.’ It helps you overcome adversity and lead.” Jordan pointed out the talent and the hard work shown on the mat during wrestling matches. “You can’t run and you can’t hide. Whatever effort you put into it is going to be presented [when you’re on the mat]. It’s honest, and it’s such a humbling sport in that way because, on any given day, anyone can win.” Just before the noon lunch break, the group of wrestlers gathered for a commemorative photo with the coaches and with CHS head coach Urrea, assistant coach Jason Dudley, CHS Athletic Director Scott Sunderland and CHS Assistant Principal Brian Pope.